If you have arthritis that limits your ability to work, you may qualify for federal and Arkansas disability benefits. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and state-specific programs for people with arthritis in Arkansas.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with arthritis, your condition must prevent you from doing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for at least 12 months. In 2025, SGA is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. You must also meet work credit requirements for SSDI (usually 40 credits, 20 in the last 10 years) or income/asset limits for SSI. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a Listing of Impairments, but even if arthritis is not listed, you may qualify if it severely limits your ability to work[1][2][3][4].
In Arkansas, eligibility for disability benefits is based on federal rules, but state agencies manage Medicaid and some work incentive programs. If you have arthritis and cannot work, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. Arkansas also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can help cover medical costs and support services. Workers with disabilities may keep Medicaid coverage if they are employed through the Workers with Disabilities Medicaid program. There are no separate state disability cash benefits for arthritis, but you may qualify for other state programs if you meet income and medical criteria[5][6].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Arkansas residents can open an ABLE account through the state program. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, education, and housing[7].
For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than SGA ($1,620/month in 2025 for non-blind individuals). For SSI, the income limit is $943/month for an individual in 2025. Medicaid income limits vary based on program and household size[1][2][3][4].
If your income or health changes, you must report it to Social Security and Medicaid. Failure to report can result in overpayments and penalties. Use the SSA online portal or contact your local office to report changes[1][2][3][4].
Contact a disability attorney or advocate for help with your application. They can guide you through the process and improve your chances of approval.
Yes, if your arthritis prevents you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. You must meet medical and financial criteria set by the Social Security Administration[1][2][3][4].
The maximum SSDI benefit in 2025 is $4,018/month, but most people get less. The average is $1,580/month. SSI maximum is $943/month for an individual[1][2][3][4].
You need medical records from your doctor showing your arthritis diagnosis, treatment, and how it limits your ability to work. Include test results, treatment plans, and statements from your doctor[1][2][3][4].
You can work, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit ($1,620/month in 2025 for non-blind individuals). Some work incentives allow you to test your ability to work without losing benefits[1][2][3][4].
The process can take several months to over a year. After approval, there is a 5-month waiting period for SSDI and a 24-month waiting period for Medicare (exceptions for ALS and ESRD)[1][2][3][4].
Arkansas offers Medicaid waivers and the Workers with Disabilities Medicaid program. These can help cover medical costs and support services for people with disabilities[5][6].
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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Yes, if you qualify for SSI or meet state Medicaid criteria. Workers with disabilities may keep Medicaid coverage if they are employed[5][6].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Arkansas residents can open an ABLE account through the state program[7].
You do not need a lawyer, but working with a disability attorney can improve your chances of approval and help with appeals[1][2][3][4].
Report changes to Social Security and Medicaid using the SSA online portal or by contacting your local office. Failure to report can result in overpayments and penalties[1][2][3][4].
